Type III and IV Info

Type 3 Spinal Muscular Atrophy Association of Australia varies in severity according to the age first diagnosed, though children tend to be diagnosed anywhere between 18 months of age and early adolescence. Most are diagnosed before the age of three.

Most children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Association of Australia III can stand and walk but have trouble with motor skills, such as going up and down stairs; their varying degrees of muscle weakness may be so mild that medical attention is not sought for years. Early milestones are usually reached. Most will show difficulty walking at some stage, though toddlers and children will fall frequently, have difficulty getting up from a sitting position, or be unable to run, whereas others may be diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. The lower extremities are often more severely affected than the upper extremities

Feeding and swallowing difficulties in this type of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Association of Australia are less common than type 2, though may occur. Muscle aches and symptoms of joint overuse are common. The disease progresses slowly, and the overall course is mild. Many patients have normal life expectancies.

In many ways, the disease mimics the symptoms of type III, with the progression of muscle weakness getting worse over time.

Loss or reduced function in the limbs is usually mild and respiratory or gastrointestinal problems are rare. People with type 4 have a normal lifespan, and only a small proportion of people will need wheelchair assistance.

JULIE CINI
CHIEF EXECUITIVE OFFICER
Julie became SMA Australia’s first CEO in late 2008. From 2005 until late 2008, Julie was … [Read More...]